“Scott has been an essential part of this show since he came aboard at the very beginning of Season 2,” said series creator Robert Kirkman in a statement. “He’s contributed to guiding this show in a substantial way that has resulted in a lot of the key scenes and storylines fans have dubbed signature moments. I am thrilled to begin work on a brand new season of The Walking Dead with Scott at the helm, and I truly believe we could be embarking on what will be the best season of this show yet.”

Added Gimple: “I’m thrilled to continue the tradition of the spectacular, cinematic, horrifying, exciting and emotional storytelling of The Walking Dead. I’m a huge fan of the comics, and started with the show on the other side of the set, as an avid viewer. Over the past two years, it’s been an incredible privilege making such great television with the best cast and crew I’ve ever worked with – I can’t wait to make some more.”

Gimple has penned five Dead episodes, including this season’s “Hounded” and and last season’s midseason finale “Pretty Much Dead Already.”